Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena has called on the newly appointed Sri Lankan envoys to prioritize economic diplomacy in their roles, emphasizing the need for international cooperation to propel the country's rapid economic advancement.
Addressing the ten diplomats at the Temple Trees, he urged them to showcase Sri Lanka's global engagement capabilities, take innovative steps to attract investments and foster joint ventures.
Gunawardena emphasized the focus on boosting trade and investments, advising the envoys to promote Sri Lanka not only as a tourist destination but primarily as an appealing hub for investment and trade. He highlighted the potential for Sri Lanka to accelerate its economic growth through close collaboration with other nations, aligning with the shifting dynamics of the global economy toward Asia, particularly with the economic rise of China, India, and ASEAN.
The Prime Minister encouraged the envoys to engage with Sri Lankan expatriate organizations and key figures in host countries to build networks that enhance bilateral ties. He underscored the importance of strengthening connections with the Spanish-speaking world, particularly Latin American countries, through accredited ambassadors.
The newly appointed Heads of Mission include Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne (Pakistan), Air Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana (Nepal), former Foreign Secretary Kshenuka Senewiratne (India), Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne (Cuba), Satyajit Rodrigo (Italy), Madurika Weninger (Egypt), Dharamapala Weerakkody (Bangladesh), Senerath Dissanayake (Singapore), and Chandana Weerasena (Belgium and the European Union). The new High Commissioner to the UK, Rohitha Bogollagama, could not attend due to a prior engagement.
